Here's how SoCal's car washes are learning to operate in the Trump era
Key takeaways
- Mario remembers his shift at Harbor Blvd Car Wash on that clear August day.
- In a panic, he ran and hid in a dark bathroom stall.
- Mario, who asked to be identified by only his first name because of his pending immigration case, is among seven workers who U.S.
Workers wash cars at Westchester Hand Wash in Los Angeles on June 4. (Christina House / Los Angeles Times) By Suhauna Hussain Staff Writer Follow June 14, 2026 3 AM PT 10 min Click here to listen to this article Share via Close extra sharing options Email Facebook X Linked In Threads Reddit Whats App Copy Link URL Copied! Print 0:00 0:00 1x This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here.
Mario remembers his shift at Harbor Blvd Car Wash on that clear August day. He was in the conveyorized tunnel dealing with an equipment issue when he heard screams.
In a panic, he ran and hid in a dark bathroom stall. Outside, he listened to his co-worker scuffle with a masked man until he heard, “OK, you’ve got me.” Then silence. He had just begun to think he was safe, when someone grabbed his arm.